Integrated courses and individual subjects: schools will choose the format of instruction
18 March 20:14
The Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine (MES) has approved a Model Curriculum for grades 1–4, which will take effect for first-graders on September 1, 2028, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
The program provides for flexibility in curriculum design and broader coverage of students with special educational needs.
A flexible approach to the curriculum
One of the program’s key ideas is the ability for schools to independently allocate instructional hours:
- a variable number of hours in the language and literature subject area, specifically 8 hours for studying the Ukrainian language;
- a variable number of hours for the integrated course “I Explore the World.”
The program also allows for combining integrated courses and individual subjects so that schools can choose the format that best suits students’ needs and the school’s staffing capabilities.
Inclusion and Student Support
This standard curriculum has become common to all types of schools:
- general education;
- special education;
- classes for children with special educational needs.
The program expands the remedial and developmental component, which enhances the ability to support children with various learning difficulties.
Special attention is given to:
- children with autism spectrum disorder;
- classes with students who have varying levels of support needs and educational challenges.
Next Steps
Once the model program is approved, the Ministry of Education and Science will begin:
- developing model curricula;
- creating textbooks for elementary school.
The use of the new materials is planned for 2028, coinciding with the start of instruction under the new standard curriculum.
